A former HBCU star just walked free after domestic assault trial.

Former North Carolina A&T and Providence guard Duncan Powell was acquitted last week on misdemeanor domestic assault charges, clearing his name after a March incident in Cranston, Rhode Island landed him in court.

Rhode Island District Court Judge Anthony Capraro handed down the not guilty verdict on June 17 following a bench trial. Powell faced charges of domestic simple assault and disorderly conduct, both misdemeanors, after a disturbance on March 28 prompted police to respond to the scene.

The allegations came from Powell’s ex-girlfriend, who claimed he threatened her and her friends during the incident. She also alleged Powell struck her earlier that day, leaving a bruise on her leg. But the judge wasn’t convinced by the evidence presented.

“We are grateful that Mr. Powell was given the opportunity to clear his name through the trial process,” Powell’s attorney, Elizabeth Payette, told the Providence Journal. “While the allegations understandably drew significant attention, the final decision reflects the judge’s careful consideration of the evidence. Duncan is looking forward to returning his focus where it belongs, which is on the bright future that lies ahead.”

Powell’s college career was a long and winding road. He started at North Carolina A&T, where he broke out as a freshman. During his lone season with the Aggies, he averaged 8.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, earning CAA All-Rookie Team honors. That caught the attention of bigger programs, and he transferred to Sacramento State after the 2023-24 season. He eventually landed at Providence for his graduate year in 2025-26.

With the Friars, Powell appeared in 22 games and started five of them, putting up 4.6 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. Not huge numbers, but he was a veteran presence on a team that needed depth.

Before A&T, Powell also spent time at Georgia Tech. So the guy has bounced around plenty. But now the legal stuff is behind him, and he can move on. What that next step looks like is anybody’s guess. He’s out of NCAA eligibility, so pro ball somewhere — maybe the G League or overseas — feels like the most natural path.

For now, though, the courtroom chapter is closed.